Pollock’s Toy Museum

Named after Benjamin Pollock, a famous printer of toy theatres at the turn of the century, Pollock’s Toy Museum opened in 1956 and is dedicated to the traditional English toy theatre.

Toy theatre (or paper theatre) was most popular in the 1800s, and consists of paper or wooden theatres, some with an extraordinary level of detail, allowing children to stage their own productions at home, usually with cut-out sheets of figures for the scenery, props and various characters in the play.

This London tourist attraction has numerous displays of puppets, stages and theatres and is an enthralling glimpse into a bygone era and a lost art. London visitors can also view the large collection of toys from around the world, from houses to train sets.

This children’s museum is close to Oxford St and Covent Garden and is perfect for kids – while those of a more academic persuasion can enjoy lectures and events on the history of this fascinating art form.

Well worth the money!
We bought a six-day pass, including an Underground pass, and used it every day we were in London. In fact, I calculated that we would have spent more on getting into places and using the Tube, than the pass cost. The pass book, listing where it could be used, was invaluable and pointed us to places, like Benjamin Franklin's home, we wouldn't have visited otherwise. I'll get a London pass again, next time I visit!Sally Young from USA